Uber and Lyft Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Florida

Uber and Lyft have quickly risen to the top of the ridesharing market. Accidents can be a significant drawback even though they are practical solutions for commuters and allow drivers to make money on the side. Since 2011, when rideshares began, they have contributed to 3% of fatal car accidents at about 987 per day and thousands of minor collisions. Being involved in a rideshare accident can raise some unique issues and problems you wouldn’t typically encounter in a typical auto collision.

Receiving maximum compensation without the aid of a rideshare accident attorney can be difficult, whether you are an injured driver or passenger. Contact a reputable Uber and Lyft accident attorney at Schrier Law Group for a free initial consultation.

What are Rideshares – Ubers and Lyfts?

Uber and Lyft are two of the most popular rideshare companies in 2022. Since their start in 2011, they have accounted for over 11 billion rideshare trips. Uber and Lyft have caused quite a stir since their “employees” were labeled as general contractors. Over the years, state and federal legislation has cracked down on Uber and Lyft and their contractors. 

The “Uber/Lyft Bill,” also known as HB 221, which makes the insurance and background check requirements for ride-sharing services uniform throughout the State of Florida, was signed into law by Florida Governor Rick Scott on May 9, 2017.

For death and bodily injury per person, $100,000 for death and bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage, the new law sets minimum insurance amounts of $50,000, $100,000, and $50,000, respectively. Uber drivers must carry $1,000,000 in liability insurance for bodily harm, property damage, and wrongful death when operating a vehicle with passengers. Like a driver of a personal car, an Uber or Lyft driver involved in an auto accident must show evidence of insurance to the police officer at the site of the accident.

What are Common Causes of RideShare Accidents in Florida?

Florida, known for its bustling cities, busy highways, and high volume of tourists, presents unique challenges for Uber drivers. Understanding the common causes of Uber accidents in Florida is crucial for recognizing the risks and implementing preventive measures.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of Uber accidents in Florida. Uber drivers often rely on navigation apps and communication with passengers, diverting their attention from the road. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), distracted driving accounted for 56,425 crashes in 2020, resulting in 2,723 serious injuries and 308 fatalities. Texting, checking ride requests, and adjusting navigation are common distractions that significantly increase the risk of accidents.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving, including speeding and abrupt lane changes, is another major cause of Uber accidents. In Florida, the fast-paced environment on highways and city streets can lead some Uber drivers to engage in unsafe driving behaviors. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that speeding was a contributing factor in 26% of all traffic fatalities in Florida in 2019, emphasizing the dangers of reckless driving.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial for Uber drivers to ensure safety. However, some drivers may neglect maintenance due to costs or time constraints. Issues such as worn tires, faulty brakes, and other mechanical failures can lead to accidents. The FLHSMV data indicates that vehicle-related issues were a factor in 5,047 crashes in 2020, highlighting the importance of proper vehicle upkeep.

Inexperienced Drivers

Florida’s attraction as a tourist destination brings many new drivers to the area, some of whom may be unfamiliar with local traffic patterns and roadways. This inexperience, combined with the pressures of ridesharing, can result in higher accident rates. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), inexperienced drivers are nearly four times more likely to be involved in accidents compared to experienced drivers.

Adverse Weather Conditions

Florida is prone to sudden and severe weather changes, including heavy rainstorms and hurricanes, creating hazardous driving environments. In 2020, weather-related crashes accounted for 17% of all accidents in Florida, according to FLHSMV. Drivers may struggle with visibility, slick roads, and high winds, all contributing to increased accident risks.

Congested Traffic

Cities like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa are notorious for traffic congestion. Navigating through crowded streets and frequent stops can increase the likelihood of accidents. The Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s Urban Mobility Report ranked Miami as the 12th most congested city in the U.S. in 2020, illustrating drivers’ challenges in Florida’s urban areas.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Interactions

Florida’s warm climate means a higher presence of pedestrians and cyclists year-round. Uber drivers must be particularly vigilant in urban areas and near tourist attractions to avoid accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists. The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reported that Florida had the second-highest pedestrian fatality rate in the U.S. in 2020, underscoring the importance of driver awareness.

Comparing Lyft, Uber Rideshare Accident Policies, Taxi Accidents, and Typical Car Accidents in Florida

The No-fault laws vary from state to state. For instance, in Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) may cover up to $10,000 in medical expenses and lost income if you are eligible. In the event that someone perishes in the collision, PIP will pay a $5,000 death benefit.

You may be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance if you are involved in an Uber accident. However, Uber will not provide you with Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits if you are wounded while riding in an Uber vehicle in Florida. This is accurate whether you are a Florida resident or a non-resident who has been hurt in a Florida car accident.

If an Uber driver strikes a pedestrian, Uber’s PIP won’t cover the victim unless the driver had his phone on but wasn’t actively looking for a ride.

Several elements, including but not limited to whether you were operating an Uber vehicle or a passenger, will determine whether you are eligible for PIP coverage.

How Can This Affect an Uber or Lyft Accident Case?

When the correct insurer denies coverage or refuses to honor the driver’s or the passenger’s coverage under their insurance policy, there are differences to be made for certain cases, and lawsuits may need to be launched against particular insurers. One key question determining which insurance must give coverage frequently revolves around whether the Uber or Lyft driver was working while driving a fare or whether the driver was operating their car while not working for Uber or Lyft. When our rideshare accident attorney in Florida finds the appropriate insurer has declined to fulfill its obligations to provide coverage, whether under the policy for Uber or Lyft drivers or under the businesses’ policy, it concerns us at Schrier Law Group.

Like Lyft or Uber, incorrect insurance coverage denials frequently occur when addressing cases involving Uber, Lyft, and other ridesharing accidents.

The Right Florida Vehicle Accident Attorney Will Be Able to Help the Injured Uber & Lyft Accident Victim.

The appropriate Florida Uber & Lyft accident attorneys, like those in the Schrier Law Group, will make a huge impact because they are skilled at navigating even the most complex rideshare insurance policies. One of our everyday objectives is to recover the greatest money for our clients. Who will cover your medical expenses, missed wages, potential future income losses, pain and suffering, or any other monetary damages available to an injured accident victim shouldn’t be something you have to second-guess or worry about.

Steps to Take After an Uber Accident

• Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health by getting immediate medical care.
• Report the Accident: Notify Uber and local law enforcement about the accident.
• Document the Scene: Gather evidence such as photos, witness information, and accident details.
• Contact an Attorney: Contact Schrier Law Group to discuss your case with an experienced Florida Uber accident attorney.

Contact the Schrier Law Group’s Florida Uber & Lyft Rideshare Accident Attorneys

The problem of Lyft and Uber drivers’ liability and how a case runs is still tricky. Don’t try to tackle it all alone; contact an experienced rideshare accident lawyer at Schrier Law Group today by dialing 1-800-700-PAUL.

Schrier Law Group is committed to fighting for the rights of Uber accident victims throughout Florida. Trust us to be your dedicated advocates in your time of need.